How to Choose the Best Siding for your House: Siding 101

 

Want to know something interesting? Your home’s resale value jumps when you replace your home’s siding with the best option.
The return on investment isn’t the only thing to think over when picking new siding. Fiber cement siding may cost more to install than vinyl siding. That’s why homeowners need to review their choices carefully. Your siding needs to stand up to harsh weather, handle winds up to 150 mph, and protect against UV damage. These are vital parts of making the right choice.

The best siding for your house depends on the materials you use, your local weather, and proper installation methods. Bad installation can trap moisture and damage your house’s structure. This makes it vital to review everything before you spend your money.
This piece walks you through what you need to know about picking the perfect siding. We’ll cover materials, climate factors, and long-term benefits that matter most to homeowners.

Contents

1. How to Choose the Best Siding for your House: Siding 101
2. Understanding Different Types of House Siding
3. How to Choose Siding for your House Based on Weather & Climatic Conditions
   
   1. Weather Resistance
   2. Best Siding for Hot Regions
   3. Ideal Options for Cold Areas
4. How to Choose Siding based on Efficiency
   
   1. Insulation Property
   2. Impact on Heating & Cooling Cost
5. Compare Siding Costs and Value
   
   1. Original Installation Expenses
   2. Long-term Maintenance Costs
   3. Return on Investment
6. Match Siding to Your Home’s Style
   
   1. Traditional House Designs
   2. Modern Architecture Requirements
7. How Modern Siding Boosts Curb Appeal & Resale Value
8. Essential Siding Features to Consider
   
   1. Durability Ratings
   2. Energy Efficiency
   3. Maintenance Needs
9. Conclusion
10. Frequently Asked Questions about Choosing the best Sidings in Canada

Understanding Different Types of House Siding

A homeowner’s decision about house siding materials depends on understanding their durability, maintenance needs, and costs. Different siding types work best for specific climates and architectural designs.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is made from PVC resin and is designed for low maintenance. Its color is engineered to remain vibrant over time without the need for repainting, and it effectively resists moisture and mildew.

Pros:

• Minimal upkeep with long-lasting color retention
• Moisture and mildew resistance
• Lightweight and relatively easy to install

Cons:

• Can soften or warp when exposed to extreme heat
• Fewer texture and design options compared to other materials

Engineered Wood Siding


Engineered wood siding is produced by combining wood strands or fibers with resins and adhesives. This manufacturing process enhances the material’s resistance to insects, fungal decay, and moisture compared to traditional wood, while offering a more uniform appearance.

Pros:

• Enhanced resistance to termites, decay, and moisture
• Consistent appearance across panels

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to preserve protective treatments
• Lacks the natural grain and warmth of solid wood

Wood Siding Options

Traditional wood siding, such as cedar or redwood, is valued for its natural beauty and versatility. Certain species like western red cedar offer inherent resistance to rot and insect damage, and their appearance can improve with age, developing a unique silver-gray patina.

Pros:

• Attractive, natural appearance with distinctive grain and color variations
• Natural insulating properties and environmental sustainability
• Some species offer inherent resistance to rot and insects

Cons:

• Requires periodic maintenance (e.g., sealing or staining) to protect against weathering
• Exposure to harsh weather conditions can eventually lead to warping or decay if not properly maintained

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is manufactured from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, creating a robust material that stands up well to the elements. It is highly resistant to moisture, rot, and pest damage when properly installed and maintained.

Pros:

• Excellent durability with strong resistance to moisture, rot, and pests
• Low maintenance requirements compared to natural wood

Cons:

• Heavier than many alternatives, often necessitating professional installation
• Can be more challenging to cut and handle during installation

Metal Siding

Metal siding, available in aluminum and steel, is renowned for its durability and ability to withstand severe weather. It is inherently fire-resistant, does not rot or attract pests, and requires little upkeep.

Pros:

• High durability and excellent fire resistance
• Low maintenance with strong resistance to rot and insect damage
• Performs well under various weather conditions

Cons:

• Can be prone to denting or scratching in high-impact areas
• Steel siding may be vulnerable to corrosion if protective coatings are compromised
• Temperature fluctuations can cause expansion and contraction, which may affect performance

Siding Type	Pros	Cons
Vinyl Siding	Low maintenance, retains color, moisture-resistant, easy installation	Can warp in extreme heat, limited texture options
Engineered Wood	Resistant to termites, moisture, and decay; uniform appearance	Requires maintenance, lacks natural wood grain
Wood Siding	Natural beauty, insulating, some species resist rot/insects	Needs regular sealing/staining, susceptible to weathering
Fiber Cement	Highly durable, moisture/rot/pest-resistant, low maintenance	Heavy, requires professional installation
Metal Siding	Fire-resistant, low maintenance, withstands harsh weather	Can dent/scratch, steel may corrode, expands/contracts with temperature

 

How to Choose Siding for your House Based on Weather & Climatic Conditions

Your local weather patterns play a key role in choosing the right siding materials. The best choice will give you lasting performance based on how well it handles moisture, temperature changes, and UV exposure.

Weather Resistance

Fiber cement siding excels at handling weather conditions of all types. It stays stable when temperatures change and protects homes from extreme weather. Homeowners in humid or coastal areas should pick fiber cement or aluminum siding because these materials work great against moisture.

Best Siding for Hot Regions

Hot climates can damage common siding materials like vinyl and wood. The sun’s UV rays can make vinyl siding warp and melt, which leads to uneven colors on exposed walls. Homeowners should look at these weather-smart options:

• Fiber cement siding (handles hot sun and UV rays well)
• Metal siding (bounces UV rays away)

Ideal Options for Cold Areas

Cold weather creates special challenges through freeze-thaw cycles. Water expands about 10% when it freezes, which puts pressure on siding materials. Cold-climate fiber cement products resist shrinking, swelling, and cracking even after years of wet winters. Engineered wood siding handles cold weather well because manufacturers treat it to fight moisture and decay. Brick and stone work as great insulators, but they need a waterproof barrier to stay strong.

How to Choose Siding based on Efficiency

Your choice of siding can affect your home’s energy efficiency through its insulation properties and heat resistance. R-value measurements show how well siding materials prevent heat transfer, which affects your energy use and utility bills.

Insulation Property

R-value is the best way to measure how well siding insulates by showing its resistance to heat flow. Insulated vinyl siding stands out in the market with R-values of 2.0 to 4.0, while regular vinyl siding has an R-value of 0.61. Different modern siding materials offer these levels of thermal resistance:

• Wood siding: R-value of 0.81 per inch
• Metal siding: R-value of 0.61 per inch
• Fiber cement: R-value of 0.47 per inch
• Brick: R-value of 0.44 per inch

Energy can travel through wooden studs from inside to outside your home in a process called thermal bridging. Exterior insulated vinyl siding covers these studs and reduces energy loss.

Impact on Heating & Cooling Cost

Choosing the right siding saves money through better temperature control. Homeowners can cut their energy costs by 10% to 25% with energy-efficient siding materials. Insulated vinyl siding works exceptionally well and can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 20%.

Fiber cement siding helps cut energy costs by about 15% compared to traditional materials. Engineered wood siding saves around 10% on energy bills. Quality siding materials create stable indoor temperatures and put less strain on your HVAC system.

Air leaks through old or damaged siding make it hard to control temperature. New siding, especially when properly insulated, stops air leaks and makes your home more comfortable while using less energy.

Compare Siding Costs and Value

Homeowners must weigh both current and future financial impacts when choosing house siding. A complete siding project costs between $11,150 to $41,800 for a 2,000-square-foot home. Material choice and installation complexity drive these price variations.

Original Installation Expenses

Different siding materials come with varying price points. Vinyl siding remains the most budget-friendly option at $6 to $20 per square foot with labor included. Fiber cement costs $10 to $21 per square foot. Wood siding materials range from $2 to $14 per square foot. Labor makes up 45% to 50% of the project’s total cost.

Long-term Maintenance Costs

Material choice affects yearly maintenance expenses. Vinyl siding needs just $140 yearly for cleaning and repairs. Wood siding maintenance costs can reach $700 each year. Brick siding proves most economical for upkeep, needing only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and mildew.

Return on Investment

Siding replacement ranks among the best home improvements you can make. Vinyl siding replacement yields a remarkable 94.7% return on investment, and fiber cement follows at 88.5%. Homeowners who choose fiber cement siding add about $24,000 to their home’s value. Non-combustible materials like fiber cement can also lower insurance premiums.

Match Siding to Your Home’s Style

Your home’s character shines through when you match siding materials with its architectural style. The right siding choice improves your home’s looks and structural strength. Some materials naturally work better with specific architectural designs.

Traditional House Designs

Classic clapboard or lap siding works great for Colonial and Cape Cod homes. Pine, spruce, cypress, and Douglas fir are still the top choices for traditional designs. Cedar and redwood siding bring natural beauty to these classic structures. These materials are great because they naturally resist rot. The timeless look of traditional lap siding, with its horizontal panels and slight overlap, fits Colonial-style homes perfectly.

Brick and stone veneer siding also work wonders for traditional home designs. These materials create a beautiful, time-tested look that’s graced Colonial and English cottage exteriors for centuries. Stucco applications on brick or stone surfaces make traditional architectural elements even better.

Modern Architecture Requirements

Modern homes just need unique siding solutions that line up with today’s design principles. These structures usually have:

• Clean lines and minimalist designs
• Glass, aluminum, and composite panel integration
• Sleek finishes that work well with energy-efficient technologies

Smooth horizontal siding gives a refined, contemporary finish that matches modern design philosophies. Metal siding made from steel or aluminum works great in modern architecture. Builders can shape it to create specific curves, edges, and designs. Board-and-batten siding adds depth and dimension, making it popular for modern farmhouse designs.

Fiber cement siding works well with both traditional and contemporary homes. It’s flexible and comes in many textures and finishes. You can find this material in styles that look like various surfaces while keeping modern performance standards. Vinyl siding offers many options too. Its horizontal and vertical panels, shakes, and beaded designs help it match different architectural styles.

How Modern Siding Boosts Curb Appeal & Resale Value

New siding is a smart investment for homeowners. Fiber cement siding adds about $24,000 to a home’s value. Exterior renovations give exceptional returns these days. Buyers are ready to pay up to 7% more for homes with new siding.

Modern siding options improve property value in several ways. There are examples of fiber cement siding that recovered 88.5% of the original cost. Vinyl siding projects earn back up to 82% when sold. These high returns come from both the looks and practical benefits of today’s materials.

Quality siding creates real financial benefits beyond just raising property values. Better insulation helps homeowners get lower insurance rates. Fiber cement’s fire-resistant nature and ability to withstand hail damage often qualifies homes for reduced premiums.

Today’s siding materials improve energy efficiency and cut utility costs. These improvements help save money over time:

• Better temperature control
• Superior moisture protection
• Improved structural integrity
• Less maintenance needed
• Longer warranty coverage

First impressions matter when selling a home. Nearly half (48%) of top agents say better curb appeal is a vital selling point. Fresh siding turns old exteriors into attractive facades that catch buyers’ eyes. The benefits go beyond looks – modern siding materials come with 30-year non-prorated warranties. This gives future homeowners confidence in their investment.

Essential Siding Features to Consider

Choosing house siding requires careful evaluation of performance metrics and test results. Consumer Reports tests show substantial variations among siding materials. Some products show better resistance to impacts, UV exposure, and high winds.

Durability Ratings

Lab tests reveal major differences in siding durability among materials. Impact resistance tests at both 0° F and 70° F show how materials handle fallen objects and other impacts. Quality siding stays intact under simulated winds that reach over 150 mph. Fiber cement siding stands out because it resists hail damage and flying debris remarkably well. Steel sidings were tested in extreme weather conditions, and it offers excellent protection against storms and physical impacts.

Energy Efficiency

R-values are vital when evaluating siding’s insulation capabilities. Insulated vinyl siding tops the list with R-values up to 4.0, which provides maximum thermal resistance. Steel siding works exceptionally well in hot climates because its reflective surface deflects solar radiation. Quality siding installation can cut energy use by up to 20% and lower monthly utility bills. The installation quality matters a lot – gaps or air leaks can reduce insulation benefits.

Maintenance Needs

Each siding material needs different levels of upkeep to perform its best. Fiber cement is low-maintenance and just needs yearly cleaning with a garden hose and soft brush. Homeowners should:

• Check siding twice a year for cracks, gaps, or loose panels
• Clean surfaces yearly to prevent dirt and algae buildup
• Look at caulking around windows and doors often
• Fix moisture problems right away to prevent structural damage

Good maintenance makes siding last longer. Vinyl siding stays in good shape with simple cleaning using mild detergent. Fiber cement products keep their looks with occasional washing, and you’ll only need to repaint them every 10 to 15 years.

Conclusion

Your home’s siding is one of the most important investments that will affect its value, energy costs, and upkeep expenses. High-quality materials like fiber cement and vinyl are exceptionally durable. These materials can give you back up to 94.7% of your original investment. Your home stays protected from harsh weather while looking great with siding that works well with homes of all styles.

The right material choice based on your local weather will give you the best performance and life span. Today’s siding options can cut your heating and cooling bills by 20% through better insulation. On top of that, modern materials need very little maintenance and guard against moisture, sun damage, and physical wear.

You’ll need to think over several things when picking your siding – from upfront costs to future maintenance needs. Northco Services can help you learn about the best sidings for your house. Our team handles professional siding installations in Ottawa.

The right siding choice will boost your property’s value and curb appeal while protecting your home for years. Homeowners who carefully evaluate material qualities, weather requirements, and architectural fit make better decisions that pay off for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions about Choosing the best Sidings in Canada

What type of house siding lasts the longest?

Fiber cement siding and steel siding are generally considered to have the longest lifespans, often lasting 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Their durability makes them a solid long-term investment.  

What is the best siding for Canadian weather?

For Canadian weather, fiber cement and high-quality vinyl siding are excellent choices. Fiber cement withstands extreme temperature fluctuations, while quality vinyl is resistant to moisture and impact. Engineered wood siding that is properly installed and maintained is also a good option. All of these materials perform well against Canada’s freeze-thaw cycles, snow, and UV exposure.  

What type of siding adds the most value?

Fiber cement siding tends to add the most value due to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and perceived quality. It offers a great return on investment by enhancing curb appeal and protecting the home long-term. High quality vinyl siding is also a great value.  

How often should home siding be replaced?

The lifespan of siding varies depending on the material and climate. Vinyl siding might need replacement after 20-40 years, while fiber cement can last 50 years or more. Wood siding, depending on maintenance, may need replacement sooner, every 10-20 years. Regular inspections can help identify when replacement is necessary.  

What color siding is timeless?

Neutral colors like grays, beiges, whites, and soft blues are considered timeless. These colors blend well with various architectural styles and landscaping, ensuring your home maintains its curb appeal for years to come. Darker greys, and even blacks are becoming very popular as well.”  

What color siding makes a house look bigger?

Lighter colors, such as light gray, white, and pale yellow, tend to make a house look bigger. They reflect light, creating an illusion of spaciousness. Avoid dark colors, which can make a house appear smaller and more compact.

What’s the best time of year for a siding installation in Canada?

The best time for siding installation in Canada is typically during the warmer, drier months, from late spring to early fall (May to October). This avoids the challenges of working in freezing temperatures, snow, and rain. However, siding can be installed during the winter, but it requires more precise installation, and is more expensive.